“Tell me and I forget, teach me and I may remember, involve me and I learn.” – Benjamin Franklin

I couldn’t resist starting my last B&W editorial with this wonderful quote. Certainly, it has been my experience with boys, staff and parents alike that something taught is remembered, something told quickly is forgotten. Last week’s commitment to ‘White Ribbon Week’ was a wonderful case in point. We all agree that there is no place for sexist or violent behaviour in our community, yet we still ignore our own actions on a daily basis. However, the actions of the boys and staff spoke volumes of their intent. We stood at assembly and swore an oath ‘never to commit, excuse or remain silent about violence against women’, we formed a ‘white ribbon’ on the Johnson Oval and our Senior boys marched down Coogee Bay Road in support of this important cause. To visualise the fact that one in three women experience domestic violence by someone they know was horrifying. As males, we all have a responsibility to respect women whether it be our girlfriends, wives, sisters, mothers or work colleagues. It all starts with our choice of language as we aim to eradicate disrespect towards women. We can do better, we must do better!

Another lesson learnt over the past eight years is the total dedication of our entire secondary staff. Their humour, passion and commitment is second to none and I am constantly reminded of just how fortunate we are to have so many wonderful role models in the lives of our sons! Sadly, we lose several distinguished servants this year:

• Mr John McVicar (retirement)
• Mr David Vernon (retirement)
• Mrs Julie Burke (leave)
• Ms Katie Treacy (exchange)
• Mr Jon Mountain (leave)
• Mr Jono Arscott (exchange)  
• Mr John Layton (De la Salle)
• Ms Rebecca Matthews (leave)
• Pastor Michael Bennett
• Mr Dean Johnston (Knox)
• Mr Stephen Lawson (Calrossy)
• Ms Brodie Richards
• Mr Graham Clarkson (IGS)
• Mr James Howe

I sincerely thank all my colleagues for their countless hours they have invested at this great College. Our boys’ lives are richer for their efforts! In particular, I would like to acknowledge the superb 30 year contribution of Mr John McVicar. John was there for my eldest son when he first arrived, and has influenced the lives of hundreds of old boys over a sterling career. Finally, I would like to publically thank my Executive Assistant, Mrs Kerrie Zabaks for her amazing patience, support and drive over these past four years. Her compassion is an immense strength and brings a warmth to our office for all our visitors.

Finally, a reminder that our 153^rd Annual Prize Giving will be held at the magnificent Sydney Town Hall on Tuesday 8 December, 2015. I remind all families that this occasion is a compulsory event for all boys except Year 8. Students must be dressed in Full Blazer Uniform. The Centennial Hall will be open from 6:00 PM and the ceremony commences sharply at 7:00 PM.  Please see my Head of Stanmore email for more details.

Please note that classes conclude this term at 12:30 PM on Tuesday 8 December and recommence on Thursday 28 January 2016 at 8:30 AM

I wish every family a safe and blessed Christmas! I am so appreciative of the support and friendship I have enjoyed over my time. As I said to the boys at assembly this week, my aim was always ‘to leave the ‘jersey’ in a better place’ but I never realised the profound impact the Newington ‘jersey’ would have on me!!

You are always most welcome in Hamilton, Victoria. In fide scientiam – to faith, add knowledge.

Dr Andrew Hirst
Deputy Headmaster / Head of Stanmore